Full-Day Port Mansfield Redfish & Trout Charter
Captain Doug knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some serious fish. This 8-hour private charter takes you deep into Port Mansfield's legendary inshore fishery, where redfish cruise the shallows and speckled trout stack up in the grass beds. We'll make the run from Corpus Christi through the Land Cut to access some of the most productive fishing grounds on the Texas coast. With just three anglers max, you'll have plenty of room to cast and all day to dial in on the bite. Whether you're a weekend warrior or just getting started, Doug provides everything you need and the know-how to make it happen.
What to Expect on the Water
Your day starts early with the run south to Port Mansfield, but trust me, the scenery and anticipation make the trip fly by. Once we hit the flats, Doug reads the conditions like a book - wind direction, tide movement, water clarity - and adjusts the game plan accordingly. Some days we're sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water, other times we're working deeper grass lines where the trout are feeding. The beauty of an 8-hour trip is flexibility. If the fish are biting in one spot, we can stay put and load the boat. If they're scattered, we've got time to cover water and find the action. Doug's been guiding these waters for years, and he knows exactly where to go when conditions change. The boat stays comfortable all day with plenty of shade, and there's always cold water on board to keep you hydrated.
Tackle & Techniques
All your gear is handled - quality rods, reels, tackle, and fresh bait are included in the trip. Doug runs light tackle setups perfect for the species we're targeting, usually 7-foot medium-action rods spooled with 15-20 pound braid. We'll be throwing everything from soft plastics like paddle tails and shrimp imitations to topwater plugs when the fish are aggressive. Live bait is always an option too - fresh shrimp and croaker work magic when the artificial bite slows down. The techniques vary with conditions, but expect to do some wade fishing in the shallows, casting to structure, and working grass beds where these fish love to ambush prey. Doug takes time to show you the ropes, whether that's reading water, proper retrieve techniques, or how to handle fish for a quick release. First-timers pick up the basics fast, and experienced anglers always learn something new about these waters.
Customer Stories
"It was one of the greatest experiences we've ever experienced! The new thing's we got to explore were just amazing! Can wait to book again with Doug he was absolutely the most amazing guide!!" - Scott
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish are the bread and butter of Port Mansfield, and for good reason. These copper-colored bulldogs range from schoolie-sized 18-inchers up to bull reds pushing 40 inches and 30+ pounds. They're year-round residents here, but fall and winter months are prime time when they school up in massive numbers. Reds feed aggressively in shallow water, often with their backs and tails exposed as they root around for crabs and shrimp. The sight of a big red's tail waving in two feet of water gets every angler's heart racing. They fight like freight trains, making multiple runs and using their broad sides to pull drag. What makes them special is their willingness to eat - they'll crush topwater plugs, soft plastics, and live bait with equal enthusiasm.
Speckled trout, or "specks" as locals call them, are the finesse fish of the Texas coast. These beautiful spotted predators love grass beds and drop-offs where they can ambush baitfish. They range from solid 14-inch keeper size up to trophy gator trout exceeding 25 inches. Specks are more selective than reds, requiring lighter tackle and precise presentations. They're most active during cooler months and low-light conditions, making early morning and late afternoon prime time. When you hook into a good trout, they'll jump and shake their heads trying to throw the hook. The bigger females are especially prized - a 4-pound trout is a legitimate trophy that'll have you grinning for days. Their delicate bite often feels like a subtle tick on the line, so staying focused pays off.
Southern flounder are the bonus fish that can really make your day. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, burying themselves in sand and mud to ambush passing prey. They're most active during their fall migration when they move from the bays to deeper Gulf waters to spawn. Flounder can be tricky to target specifically, but they often show up when you're working soft plastics slowly along the bottom for other species. A good Port Mansfield flounder runs 16-20 inches, and the bigger ones put up a surprising fight with powerful runs and head shakes. They're excellent table fare too, making them a favorite target for anglers who like to keep a few fish for dinner.
Time to Book Your Spot
Port Mansfield's reputation as a world-class fishery isn't by accident - the fish are here year-round, and Captain Doug knows how to find them. This full-day charter gives you the best shot at multiple species and bigger numbers, plus the flexibility to adapt to changing conditions. Whether you're looking to cross a redfish off your bucket list, chase trophy trout, or just spend a day on the water learning from one of the area's top-rated guides, this trip delivers. The 3-angler limit keeps things personal and gives everyone plenty of casting opportunities. Don't wait too long to book - the best dates fill up fast, especially during peak season. Give Doug a call and get your Port Mansfield adventure on the calendar.
5.0(1 Reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Corpus Christi, TX
Eight
